Mobile chair apparatus comprising foot pedals

ABSTRACT

A mobile chair apparatus is described that comprises a drive assembly that preferably includes one or more moveable foot pedals, and drive wheels which rotate in response to rotation of the foot pedals by the mobile chair occupant, and a steering assembly which comprises two steering wheels and at least one tiller, configured such that forward and backward movement of said tiller will translate into movement of both steering wheels, wherein the drive assembly and the steering assembly concurrently enable the mobile chair occupant to propel and steer the mobile chair apparatus without assistance from another person.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This application relates to a mobile chair apparatus, which enables anoccupant user of the apparatus to steer and propel movement of the chairwithout assistance from another person.

DISCUSSION AND COMPARISON WITH RELEVANT PRIOR ART

Currently there is an unmet need for providing mobility to people whohave limited ambulation, in particular people who retain limited use oftheir legs but have difficulty standing for an extended period of timeand/or walking long distances. Limited ambulation afflicts many patientssuffering from neurological diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis,Parkinson's disease, Spinal Stenosis, etc. as well as patients withtemporary or permanent injuries and strokes. While these patients havelimited use of one or both legs, many activities of daily living,including but not limited to shopping, attending a sports game, andtravel, can be challenging.

The mobile chair apparatus described herein (also referred to as the“Pedal Chair” or the “VeloChair”) seeks to address this unmet need byproviding improved mobility and independence to persons who have reducedmovement in one or both legs and some movement in at least one arm. ThePedal Chair is also useful as an exercise device for patients in needthereof. Briefly, according to an embodiment of the instant invention,the pedal chair apparatus is a mobile chair apparatus having a frontend, a rear end, a top side and a bottom side, which comprises: (a) asteering assembly comprising: i. a first armrest connected to a firstlink arm, and a second armrest connected to a second link arm; ii. afirst tie rod connected to the first link arm and a second tie rodconnected to the second link arm; iii. a first steering block connectedto the first tie rod and a second steering block connected to the secondtie rod; iv. a third tie rod interconnecting the first and the secondsteering blocks; and v. a first steering wheel and a second steeringwheel each located at the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus, thefirst and second steering wheels move in response to movement of one orboth of the first and second armrests, and (b) a drive assemblypreferably comprising a pair of foot pedals, and (c) a seat. Analternative steering assembly of the VeloChair uses tillers instead ofarmrests, wherein the steering wheels move in response to forward andbackward movement of one or both tillers.

A number of mobility chairs with pedaling mechanisms have been proposed.Unlike the Pedal Chair, many prior art devices are removable attachmentsto conventional wheelchairs, including those discussed in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,273,304, 5,324,060 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No.2008/0246246. Attaching such prior art devices to a conventionalwheelchair can prove difficult for someone with limited use of one ormore of their limbs. Moreover, since the conventional wheelchair is notdesigned to be moved using propulsion provided by rotation of footpedals, the apparatus assembled using said attachments could becumbersome and inefficient in translating movement of the foot pedals toforward movement of the chair. Further, the assembled apparatus lacksmany of the desirable features of the novel Pedal Chair describedherein. For instance, the assembled apparatus in each of thesereferences has front steering wheels and larger rear driving wheels ofthe conventional wheelchair, as well as additional wheel or wheelsprovided by the attachment. In contrast, the Pedal Chair of the instantinvention requires only 4 wheels, i.e., two front drive wheels and tworear steering wheels, to be operable. In a preferred embodiment, thenovel Pedal Chair can comprise a seatback that is foldable into theapparatus via a hinge or pivot connection. In contrast, the seatposition in a conventional wheelchair is fixed. Additional embodimentsof the Pedal Chair includes a length-wise and angle-wise adjustable boomand optional electrical assist, which are not available in the prior artdesigns.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,092,822 teaches a stand-alone wheelchair comprising footpedals that may be self-propelled by a person in the chair or pushed byanother person. As with the teaching of the '304 patent, the '060patent, and the '246 Publication, the wheel placement of the '822 patentreflects the conventional design, i.e., two front steering wheels andtwo larger rear driving wheels. Importantly, the steering mechanism ofthe '822 patent differs from that of the Pedal Chair in that steering ofthe '822 patent is accomplished by moving a handle in the form of alongitudinal rod. The steering wheel rotates in response to rotation ofthe longitudinal rod.

A chair known as the “Profhand pedal wheelchair” developed by YasunobuHanda is described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,517,407 and is commerciallyavailable from Pedal Wheelchair LLC of Barberton, Ohio. The wheels ofthe Profhand pedal wheelchair, unlike conventional wheelchair designs,include two front drive wheels and a single rear steering wheel. Unlikethe Pedal Chair, the “Profhand pedal wheelchair” requires outriggerswith two additional wheels towards the rear end and front end of thechair, apparently for stability. In a preferred embodiment, the supportshaft (boom) of the Pedal Chair on which the foot pedals are located isadjustable both in angle and in length, unlike that of the “Profhandpedal wheelchair.” Moreover, the steering mechanism of the “Profhandpedal wheelchair” differs from that of the Pedal Chair in that itrequires use of working fingers to grasp and operate the steering armeither located on the right or left side of the chair. The steeringmechanism further attaches to the steering rear wheel via a cableconnection that requires adjustment, which system is prone to breakage.

Japanese Publication No. JP 2014104191 teaches a foot pedal-drivenwheelchair having a rotating shaft on which the pedals are mounted.According to this design an idler wheel is provided on the right andleft sides of the seat; a single steering wheel for determining traveldirection is provided separately from the idler wheel at the rear of thechair, and driving force of the rotating shaft driven by motion of thefoot pedals is transmitted to the steering wheel to drive the steeringwheel, and to thereby travel. Further according to this design,direction of travel is controlled by a lever (element 23) having a gripto be held. Thus, operation of this wheelchair requires working fingers.

Chinese Publication No. CN202136498 and Chinese Publication No.CN201832055 describe rehabilitation exercise devices comprising awheelchair. According to these designs, movement of the foot pedalscause movement of an occupant user's legs, rather than the other wayaround. To use the rehabilitation exercise device of CN202136498, apatient sits on the wheelchair with the two feet placed on the pedals,and pushes the two main wheels by hand to move forward. The drive wheeldrives the driven wheel which is arranged on a support to rotate througha chain, and the driven wheel drives the movable foot pedals to rotateand thus to exercise the lower limbs, so as to achieve therehabilitation purpose. The chair of CN201832055 requires a non-occupantuser to push to move the chair. When the chair is pushed to move, thegear on the rear of the wheelchair drives a chain wheel to rotate by thechain, and the chain wheel drives the pedals to move circumferentiallyso that the patient can perform recovery motions of legs by sitting onthe wheelchair with feet placed on the pedals.

The apparatus of the present invention addresses and overcomesshortcomings of the prior art in one or more respects. In one suchrespect, none of the foregoing prior art employs armrest-facilitatedsteering design as provided by the Pedal Chair. The armrest-facilitatedsteering design provided by the present invention is advantageous overprior art designs because its mechanical connections are robust, anddoes not require fragile and adjustable components such as a cable whichmay undesirably be prone to breakage, particularly when used understress such as when trying to move when the chair is not in motion, andrequire adjustment or replacement. Moreover, the Pedal Chair can be usedby an individual who has even only limited movement of only one arm andno working fingers on either hand. Further, because steering can beaccomplished by movement of either armrest, it is not necessary torearrange mechanical components of this chair to accommodate patientswith disability of different arms, or who wish to exercise differentarms. The tiller-facilitated steering is also advantageous since thetillers are removable on either side to enable ease of transfer in orout of the VeloChair.

These and further aspects of the invention will be understood withreference to the following specification and drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Disclosed is a mobile chair apparatus having a front end, a rear end, atop side and a bottom side, which comprises: (a) a steering assemblycomprising: i. a first armrest connected to a first link arm, and asecond armrest connected to a second link arm; ii. a first tie rodconnected to the first link arm and a second tie rod connected to thesecond link arm; iii. a first steering block connected to the first tierod and a second steering block connected to the second tie rod; iv. athird tie rod interconnecting the first and the second steering blocks;and v. a first steering wheel and a second steering wheel each locatedat the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus, the first and secondsteering wheels move in response to movement of one or both of the firstand second armrests, and (b) a drive assembly preferably comprising apair of foot pedals, and (c) a seat.

Also disclosed is said mobile chair apparatus comprising an alternativesteering assembly arrangement, which comprises (i) first armrestoperably connected to a first link arm, and a second armrest operablyconnected to a second link arm; (ii) a first steering tube operablyconnected to the first link arm and a second steering tube operablyconnected to the second link arm; (iii) a first gear assembly operablyconnected to the first steering tube and a second gear assembly operablyconnected to the second steering tube; (iv) a first steering wheeloperably connected to the first gear assembly and a second steeringwheel operably connected to the second gear assembly, wherein the firstand second steering wheels are located at the rear end of the mobilechair apparatus, and move in response to movement of one or both of thefirst and second armrests. Also disclosed is said mobile chair apparatuscomprising an alternative steering assembly arrangement, which comprises(i) a first tiller and optionally a second tiller, (ii) a first largelink arm and a second large link arm, wherein the first tiller isoperably connected to the first large link arm, preferably via a firsttiller receiving socket, and the second large link arm is operablyconnected to the second tiller, when present, preferably via a secondtiller receiving socket, (iii) a first steering tube, a first steeringtube shaft, a first steering tube gear, a second steering tube, a secondsteering tube shaft, and a second steering tube gear, wherein said firststeering tube has the first steering shaft inserted therein, said firststeering tube shaft being operably connected to the first large linkarm, preferably via a first small link arm, and wherein said secondsteering tube has the second steering shaft inserted therein, saidsecond steering tube shaft being operably connected to the second largelink arm, preferably via a second small link arm, and wherein the firststeering gear is mounted to the first steering shaft, and the secondsteering gear is mounted to the second steering shaft, (iv) a connectingtie rod; and (v) a first steering wheel and a second steering wheel eachlocated at the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus, the first andsecond steering wheels configured to move in response to movement of oneor both of the first and second tillers.

Also disclosed is a mobile chair apparatus having a front end, a rearend, a top side and a bottom side, comprising: (a) a steering assembly,(b) a drive assembly comprising: i. a first drive wheel and a seconddrive wheel each connected to an axle; ii. a support shaft having adistal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the supportshaft is located on the bottom side of the mobile chair apparatus; iii.a pair of foot pedals connected to a crank located at the distal end ofthe support shaft; iv. a gear hub located at the proximal end of thesupport shaft; v. a first chain connecting the crank to the gear hub;and vi. a second chain shorter in length than the first chain, saidsecond chain connecting the gear hub to the axles or connectingcomponents of the gear hub, and (c) a seat.

Also disclosed is a mobile chair apparatus having a front end, a rearend, a top side and a bottom side, comprising: (a) a steering assembly,(b) a drive assembly comprising: i. a first drive wheel and a seconddrive wheel each connected to an axle; ii. a support shaft having adistal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the supportshaft is located on the bottom side of the mobile chair apparatus; iii.a pair of foot pedals connected to a crank located at the distal end ofthe support shaft; iv. a chain operably connecting the crank to theaxle, and (c) a seat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: shows a side perspective view of an embodiment of a mobile chairapparatus (via., Pedal Chair) as described herein.

FIG. 2: shows a top view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein.

FIG. 3: shows a back view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein.

FIG. 4: shows a side perspective view of a mobile chair apparatus asdescribed herein, with seatback and support shaft (pedal support boom)in the folded position.

FIG. 5: shows a top view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein, with seatback and support shaft (pedal support boom) in thefolded position.

FIG. 6: shows a bottom view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein, with seatback and support shaft (pedal support boom) in thefolded position.

FIG. 7: shows a perspective view of a mobile chair apparatus asdescribed herein, having drive wheels removed.

FIG. 8: shows a perspective view of a mobile chair apparatus asdescribed herein, having drive wheels removed.

FIG. 9: shows a bottom, close-up view of an example of the driveassembly as described herein.

FIG. 10: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the driveassembly as described herein.

FIG. 11: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the driveassembly as described herein.

FIG. 12: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the footpedals, associated pedal crank and boom extension locking bolts asdescribed herein.

FIG. 13: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the footpedals, associated pedal crank and boom extension locking bolts asdescribed herein.

FIG. 14: shows a side, close-up view of an example of the foot pedalsand associated pedal crank as described herein.

FIG. 15: shows a bottom, close-up view of an example of the gear hub(including transmission) as described herein.

FIG. 16: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the gearhub (including transmission and differential) as described herein.

FIG. 17: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of the gearhub (including transmission and differential) as described herein.

FIG. 18: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of thesteering assembly as described herein.

FIG. 19: shows a perspective, close-up view of an example of thesteering assembly as described herein.

FIG. 20: shows a back view of a mobile chair apparatus comprising thealternative steering assembly arrangement as described herein.

FIG. 21: shows a top view of a mobile chair apparatus comprising thealternative steering assembly arrangement as described herein. Seat(301) which may be mounted on a chair frame is not shown.

FIGS. 22A and 22B: show left side views of a mobile chair apparatuscomprising the alternative steering assembly arrangement as describedherein. Seat (301) which may be mounted on a chair frame is not shown inFIG. 22A.

FIGS. 23A and 23B: show right side views of a mobile chair apparatuscomprising the alternative steering assembly arrangement as describedherein. Seat (301) which may be mounted on a chair frame and portions ofthe frame are not shown in FIG. 23A, so as to provide a clear view ofthe steering components in the steering assembly.

FIG. 24: shows a front side view of a mobile chair apparatus comprisingthe alternative steering assembly arrangement as described herein. Seat(301) which may be mounted on a chair frame is not shown.

FIG. 25: shows a side view of an alternative arrangement for the driveassembly (20) described herein which design allows for the transfer ofmotion from the foot pedals to the drive wheels via a single chainoperably connecting the crank and the axle. According to this design, asecond chain and transmission (207 a) are not required to transfermotion from the foot pedals to the drive wheels.

FIG. 26: shows a perspective view of a mobile chair apparatus asdescribed herein, having a third alternative arrangement for thesteering assembly (10), which includes a tiller (tiller design).

FIG. 27: shows a side view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein, having a third alternative arrangement for the steering assembly(10), which includes a tiller (tiller design). A first tiller (131) isshown in the front and an optional second tiller (131 b) can be seen indotted lines behind the first tiller.

FIG. 28: shows a close-up view of a mobile chair apparatus as describedherein, having a third alternative arrangement for the steering assembly(10), which includes a tiller (tiller design).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A mobile chair apparatus is described that comprises a drive assemblythat preferably includes one or more moveable foot pedals, and asteering assembly, both of which concurrently enable an occupant user ofthe mobile chair apparatus to propel and to steer the mobile chairapparatus without assistance from another person. According to anembodiment of the present invention, a chair is mounted on a supportframe having 4 wheels attached thereto, two wheels which are used forsteering and form part of the steering assembly, and two drive wheelswhich form part of the drive assembly. The drive wheels rotate inresponse to rotation of foot pedals by the occupant of the Pedal Chair.

Terms

As used herein, and unless stated otherwise, each of the following termsshall have the definition set forth below.

As used herein, “about” in the context of a numerical value or rangemeans±10% of the numerical value or range recited or claimed. By anyrange disclosed herein, it is meant that all hundredth, tenth andinteger unit amounts within the range are specifically disclosed as partof the invention. Accordingly, “about” a recited value specificallyincludes that recited value. For example, an angle of about 90° refersto all angles within the range of ±10% of 90° including the angle of90°.

As used herein, the term “outrigger” refers to any structural componentfor providing stability, other than the drive and steering wheels, whichextends from the mobile chair apparatus and touches the ground when themobile chair apparatus is positioned upright on a flat surface.

As used herein, support “shaft” refers to an elongated supportstructure. “Shaft” is being used herein as a term interchangeable with“beam” or “boom” commonly used in the art of mechanical engineering.

In the following drawings figures, like or corresponding elementspresented in different drawing figures are identified using the samereference numeral.

With reference to FIGS. 1-19, an embodiment of the disclosed mobilechair apparatus (1) (“Pedal Chair”) has a front end (1 a), a rear end (1b), a top side (1 c) and a bottom side (1 d) and comprises:

-   -   a) a steering assembly (10) comprising:        -   i. first armrest (101) connected to a first link arm (102),            and a second armrest (103) connected to a second link arm            (104), wherein the first and second armrests are preferably            disposed on opposite sides of the mobile chair apparatus;        -   ii. a first tie rod (105) connected to the first link arm            (102) and a second tie rod (106) connected to the second            link arm (104);        -   iii. a first steering block (107) connected to the first tie            rod (105) and a second steering block (108) connected to the            second tie rod (106);        -   iv. a third tie rod (109) interconnecting the first and the            second steering blocks (107, 108); and        -   v. a first steering wheel (110) and a second steering wheel            (111) each located at the rear end (1 b) of the mobile chair            apparatus (1), the first and second steering wheels (110,            111) move in response to movement of one or both of the            first and second armrests (101, 103), and    -   b) a drive assembly (20) preferably comprising a pair of foot        pedals (201), and    -   c) a seat (301) which may be mounted on a chair frame, and        optionally a seatback (302) attached to the seat (301) or the        chair frame via a first pivot or hinge connection (303).

A separate embodiment of the Pedal Chair comprises,

-   -   a) a steering assembly (10), and    -   b) a drive assembly (20) comprising:        -   i. a first drive wheel (202) and a second drive wheel (203)            each connected to an axle (204), which axle can be common            are separate;        -   ii. a support shaft (205) having a distal end (205 a) and a            proximal end (205 b), wherein the proximal end (205 b) of            the support shaft is preferably located on the bottom side            (1 d) of the mobile chair apparatus (1);        -   iii. a pair of foot pedals (201) preferably connected to a            pedal crank (206), which are preferably located at the            distal end (205 a) of the support shaft (205);        -   iv. a gear hub (207) preferably located at the proximal end            (205 b) of the support shaft (205);        -   v. a first chain (not shown in the figures for purposes of            retaining clarity in the drawing figures, but to be            understood as operatively) connecting the foot pedals (201)            or the pedal crank (206) to the gear hub (207) whereby the            chain transmits motive power from the foot pedals (201) or            the pedal crank (206) to the gear hub (207); and        -   vi. a second chain (also not shown in the figures for            purposes of retaining clarity in the drawing figures)            shorter in length than the first chain, said second chain            (to be understood as operatively) connecting the gear hub            (207) to the axle or axles (204), whereby the chain transmit            motive power from the gear hub (207) to the axle or axles            (204) or connecting components of the gear hub (e.g., 207 a            and 207 b),    -   c) a seat (301) which may be mounted on a chair frame, and        optionally a seatback (302) attached to the seat (301) or the        chair frame via a first pivot or hinge connection (303).

With further reference to FIGS. 20-24, a further embodiment of thedisclosed mobile chair apparatus (1) has a front end (1 a), a rear end(1 b), a top side (1 c) and a bottom side (1 d) and comprises:

-   -   a) a steering assembly (10) comprising:        -   i. a first armrest (101) operably connected to a first link            arm (102), and a second armrest (103) operably connected to            a second link arm (104), wherein the first and second            armrests are preferably disposed on opposite sides of the            mobile chair apparatus;        -   ii. a first steering tube (114) operably connected to the            first link arm (102) and a second steering tube (115)            operably connected to the second link arm (104);        -   iii. a first gear assembly (116) operably connected to the            first steering tube (114) and a second gear assembly (117)            operably connected to the second steering tube (115);        -   iv. a first steering wheel (110) operably connected to the            first gear assembly (116) and a second steering wheel (111)            operably connected to the second gear assembly (117),            wherein the first and second steering wheels (110, 111) are            located at the rear end (1 b) of the mobile chair apparatus            (1), and move in response to movement of one or both of the            first and second armrests (101, 103), and    -   b) a drive assembly (20) preferably comprising a pair of foot        pedals (201), and    -   c) a seat (301) which may be mounted on a chair frame, and        optionally a seatback (302) attached to the seat (301) or the        chair frame via a first pivot or hinge connection (303).

With further reference to FIG. 25, according to a further embodiment ofthe present invention, an alternative arrangement for the drive assembly(20) is provided which comprises: i. a first drive wheel and a seconddrive wheel each connected to an axle; ii. a support shaft having adistal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the supportshaft is located on the bottom side of the mobile chair apparatus; iii.a pair of foot pedals connected to a crank located at the distal end ofthe support shaft; iv. a chain operably connecting the crank to theaxle.

The specific steering and drive assemblies (10, 20) described above canoperate independently of each other on a mobile chair apparatus.However, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a PedalChair is provided comprising both a steering assembly (10) and a driveassembly (20) as specifically described above. In this embodiment, thefirst steering wheel (110) and a second steering wheel (111) are eachlocated rearwardly from the first drive wheel (202) and a second drivewheel (203) and each of the first drive wheel (202) and a second drivewheel (203) preferably also being disposed on opposite sides of themobile chair apparatus (1), in which the orientation of said the firstdrive wheel (202) and a second drive wheel (203) is controlled by therelative position of at least one of the first and/or second armrests(101, 103).

The Steering Assembly (10)

The primary function of the steering assembly (10) is to convertmovement of the first and/or second armrest (101, 103) to a pivotingmotion of the first and the second steering wheels (110, 111).

Referring to FIG. 18, an embodiment of the steering assembly (10)comprises: (i) a first armrest (101, not visible in FIG. 18 but seen inother figures) connected to a first link arm (102), and a second armrest(103) connected to a second link arm (104), wherein the first and secondarmrests are preferably disposed on opposite sides of the mobile chairapparatus; (ii) a first tie rod (105) connected to the first link arm(102) and a second tie rod (106) connected to the second link arm (104);(iii) a first steering block (107) connected to the first tie rod (105)and a second steering block (108) connected to the second tie rod (106);(iv) a third tie rod (109) interconnecting the first and the secondsteering blocks (107, 108); and (v) a first steering wheel (110) and asecond steering wheel (111) each located at the rear end (1 b) of themobile chair apparatus (1), and preferably disposed on opposite sides ofthe mobile chair apparatus, and whose orientation relative to the drivewheels (202, 203) may be established by the relative positions of one orboth of the first and second armrests (101, 103), and which orientationmay be changed by changing the relative positions of one or both of thefirst and second armrests (101, 103). The first and second steeringwheels move in response to movement of one or both of the first andsecond armrests (101, 103).

The two armrests (101, 103), the two link arms (102, 104) the twosteering blocks (107, 108) and the three tie rods (105, 106 and 109)together form an interconnected system that ensures sliding movement ofeither armrest by an occupant user translates into correspondingmovement of both steering wheels (110, 111). With this configuration,the Pedal Chair can be steered by using either arm, without use ofworking fingers. The turning radius of the rear two steering wheels isadvantageously at least about 90° of arc, but greater (viz. to about180° of arc) or lesser degrees of motion, but preferably at least about10° of arc are also considered to be within the scope of this invention.With this design, the Pedal Chair can virtually turn within its owndiameter. A suitable size for the drive wheel is about 8 inches indiameter, but larger or smaller sizes are also easily used in theinvention,

In use, the occupant user rests one or both arms on the chair armrests,and steers the Pedal Chair by moving either arm, for instance forwardlyand/or rearwardly, resulting in movement of armrests (101, 103) on bothsides of the chair due to the mechanical interconnections of the severalelements making up the steering assembly (10). The relative position ofan armrest (101, 103) establishes the relative position of its tie rod(105, 106) connected to its steering block (107, 108), and in turnestablishes the position or orientation of each steering wheel (110,111) attached to an individual steering block (107, 108). In anembodiment, the steering wheels (110, 111) are attached to steeringblocks (107, 108) via a steering wheel rod (112) and one or moresteering wheel support component (113). According to this design, themovement of steering block (107, 108) is transferred to the steeringwheel by rotation of the steering wheel rod and the one or more steeringwheel support component. In the figures the steering wheel supportcomponents (113) are depicted on only the outside of the steering wheel.However, embodiments where one or more support components are located onthe inside or both sides of the steering wheel are envisioned to bewithin the scope of the present invention.

Movement of the armrests (101, 103) thereby imparts direct control overthe steering wheels (110, 111) and the ability for the Pedal Chair toturn. By sliding even one of the armrests (101, 103) in the direction oftravel desired, a user causes the rear wheels to turn in that directionand thereby providing steering control.

In a separate embodiment of the present invention, and with reference toFIGS. 20-24 in particular, an alternative arrangement for the steeringassembly (10) is provided comprising (i) a first armrest (101) operablyconnected to a first link arm (102), and a second armrest (103) operablyconnected to a second link arm (104), wherein the first and secondarmrest are preferably disposed on opposite sides of the mobile chairapparatus; (ii) a first steering tube (114) operably connected to thefirst link arm (102) and a second steering tube (115) operably connectedto the second link arm (104); (iii) a first gear assembly (116) operablyconnected to the first steering tube (114) and a second gear assembly(117) operably connected to the second steering tube (115); and (iv) afirst steering wheel (110) operably connected to the first gear assembly(116) and a second steering wheel (111) operably connected to the secondgear assembly (117), wherein the first and second steering wheels (110,111) are located at the rear end (1 b) of the mobile chair apparatus(1), and move in response to movement of one or both of the first andsecond armrests (101, 103).

In the alternative arrangement for the steering assembly (10) discussedabove, the mobile chair apparatus (1) is steered via movement of one orboth of the first and second armrests (101, 103), each of said first andsecond armrests (101, 103) being connected to a respective “steeringwish bone”, also referred to herein as the first and second link arms(102, 104), which first and second link arms (102, 104) turn the firstand second steering tubes (114, 115). This arrangement allows turning ofthe first and second steering tubes (114, 115) left and right withrespect to their longitudinal axis.

The first and second steering tubes (114, 115) are operably connected tothe first and second gear assemblies (116, 117), respectively.Preferably, the first and second gear assemblies (116, 117) eachcomprises at least two gears, more preferably at least a large gear(118, 120) and a small gear (119, 121) (i.e., the 2 gears are ofdifferent sizes), and the first steering tube (114) operably connects toone of the at least two gears in the first gear assembly (116), whichone of the at least two gears in the first gear assembly (116) in turnoperably connects to, and turns, the other of the at least two gears inthe first gear assembly (116).

For example, in an embodiment the first steering tube (114) has a largegear (118) mounted thereon, which in turn intermeshes and turns a smallgear (119), which small gear (119) is mounted to shaft which rotates afirst wheel dropout (122) on one side of the Pedal Chair, which firstwheel dropout (122) is operably connected to the first steering wheel(110). Rotation of the first wheel dropout (122) left or right providesturning to the first steering wheel (110).

A skilled person in the art would readily recognize that analogouslinkage arrangement comprising the second armrest (103), the second linkarm (104), the second steering tube (115), the second gear assembly(117), a second wheel dropout (123) which is operably connected to thesecond steering wheel (111), can be used on the other (opposite) side ofthe Pedal chair.

In a further embodiment, a connecting tie rod (109) is connected to thefirst and second gear assemblies (116, 117), or the pair of large gears(118, 120), or the pair of small gears (119, 121), or the wheel dropouts(122, 123) or steering wheels (110, 111) on two sides of the Pedal Chairsuch that movement of either armrest (101 or 103) will turn bothsteering wheels (110, 111).

This alternative steering assembly arrangement allows for turning of thesteering wheels (110, 111) when the Pedal Chair is not in motion. Theability to reset the steering wheels (110, 111) while the mobile chairapparatus is stopped is an important advantage of the Pedal Chair asdescribed herein.

With reference to FIGS. 21-24 in particular, it can be seen that thefront of armrests (101, 103) are attached to a support arm assembly. Thesupport arm assembly pivots at the frame attachment and the armrest toallow for movement of the armrest. Hinged support arms (not shown inFIG. 21) are attached to the frame via pivot points shown in FIG. 21(124, 125). FIG. 24 shows the support arms (126,127), the pivot pointattached to the frame (124,125) and the support arm pivot attachment tothe armrest (128, 129).

With reference to FIGS. 26-28, according to a third alternative steeringassembly design (the tiller design), the VeloChair can be steered withforward or backward movement of one or more tillers (131) on one or bothsides of the VeloChair.

Therefore, in accordance with said embodiment, the steering assembly(10) comprises a first set of steering components comprising (i) a firsttiller (131), (ii) a first large link arm (132), (iii) a first steeringtube (136), (iv), a first steering tube shaft (135), (v) a firststeering tube gear (142), (vi) a first steering wheel (110), and asecond set of steering components comprising (vii) optionally a secondtiller (131), (viii) a second large link arm (132), (ix) a secondsteering tube (136), (x), a second steering tube shaft (135), (xi) asecond steering tube gear (142), (xii) a second steering wheel (111).The steering assembly (10) further comprises a connecting tie rod (109)interconnecting one or more of the first set of steering components toone or more of the second set of steering components so that moving justone of the two tillers (131) forward or backward will turn both steeringwheels (110, 111) simultaneously. As shown in FIGS. 26-28, the first andsecond corresponding steering components recited above, when both arepresent, can be preferably disposed on opposite sides of the VeloChair,specifically, one set to the left side of the VeloChair and the otherset to the right.

Further, the VeloChair can configured such that:

-   (1) the first large link arm (132) is connected to the first tiller    (131), preferably via a first tiller receiving socket (133); and-   (2) the first steering tube (136) has the first steering tube shaft    (135) inserted therein, and said first steering tube shaft (135) is    operably connected to the first large link arm(132), preferably via    a first small link arm (134); and-   (3) the first steering gear (142) is operably connected to or    mounted to the first steering tube shaft (135), optionally via a    first intermediate gear (137), which first intermediate gear (137)    can be mounted on the first steering tube (136); and-   (4) The first steering gear (142) rotates the first steering wheel    (110) left or right, preferably via the first wheel dropout (122),    to provide turning to the first steering wheel (110),-   (5) the second set of components comprising a second large link arm    (132), a second steering tube (136), a second steering tube shaft    (135), a second steering gear (142), a second steering wheel (111),    and optionally, a second tiller receiving socket (133), a second    small link arm (134), a second wheel drop out (123), and a second    intermediate gear (137),-   (6) a connecting tie rod (109) interconnecting one or more of the    first set of steering components to one or more of the second set of    steering components, preferably by connecting the first and the    second small link arms (134), so that moving just one of the two    tillers (131) forward or backward will turn both steering wheels    (110, 111) simultaneously.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment the VeloChair issteered by forward or backward movement of the tiller (131) on either orboth sides simultaneously, which tiller or tillers (131) is connected tothe large link arm (132) on both sides. The tillers (131) are attachedto the VeloChair with the tiller receiving sockets (133) connected tothe large link arms (132). The large link arms (132) are connected viasmall link arms (134) to the top of the steering tube shaft (135)inserted to the steering tube (136) left and right for either side. Thesteering tube (136) has an intermediate gear (137) mounted on it whichturns the first steering tube gear (136). This first steering tube gear(136) is mounted to a shaft which rotates the wheel dropouts (122, 123)left or right to provide turning to the steering wheels (110, 111). Bothleft and right small link arms (134) are connected via the connectingtie rod (109) so that moving just one of the two tillers (131) forwardor backward will turn both steering wheels (110, 111) simultaneously.The tiller or tillers (131) are configured to be easily removable forease of side sitting transfer in or out of the VeloChair. The tiller ortillers (131) are also configured to be adjustable in height toaccommodate more or less force to steer. The height can be adjustableusing a clamping knob (143) located in the tiller receiving sockets(133). The steering wheels (110, 111) can each include a screw type knob(141) either of which can be used to lock the steering wheels (110, 111)into a straight position if desired for ease of folding the VeloChair.

The Drive Assembly (20)

The primary function of the drive assembly is to translate or transferthe rotational motion of the foot pedals (201) to the rotational motionof the first and the second drive wheels (202, 203). A suitable size forthe drive wheel is about 20 inches in diameter, but larger or smallersizes are also easily used in the invention, with smaller sized drivewheels more suitable for juvenile sized Pedal Chairs.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, an embodiment of the drive assemblycomprises components (i)-(vi): (i) a first drive wheel (202), not shownin FIGS. 10 and 11 but shown in other figures) and a second drive wheel(203, not shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 but shown in other figures eachconnected to an axle (204, not shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 but shown inother figures), which axle (204) can be common or separate; (ii) asupport shaft (205) having a distal end (205 a) and a proximal end (205b), wherein the proximal end (205 b) of the support shaft is preferablylocated on the bottom side (id) of the mobile chair apparatus (1); (iii)a pair of foot pedals (201) connected to a pedal crank (206) preferablylocated at the distal end (205 a) of the support shaft (205); (iv) agear hub (207) preferably located at the proximal end (205 b) of thesupport shaft (205); (v) a first chain (not shown in the figures forpurposes of retaining clarity in the drawing figures, but to beunderstood as operatively) connecting the pedal crank (206) to thetransmission (207 a) of the gear hub (207) whereby the chain transmitsmotive power from the pedal crank (206) to the transmission (207 a) ofthe gear hub (207); and (vi) a second chain (also not shown in thefigures for purposes of retaining clarity in the drawing figures)shorter in length than the first chain, said second chain (to beunderstood as operatively) connecting the transmission (207 a) to adifferential (207 b) of the gear hub (207), which differential (207 b)drives the axle or axles (204), whereby the small chain transmits motivepower from the transmission (207 a) to the axle or axles (204). FIGS. 10and 11 show preferable but optional elements including the differential(207 b) and a yoke (207 c). FIG. 11 also shows optional element boomextension locking bolts (205 c) which can lock/tighten the position ofthe length-wise adjustable boom.

The connection to the drive wheels (202, 203) can be achieved via adouble chain configuration including a transmission (207 a) anddifferential (207 b) as described above or a direct connection (e.g.,via a chain, a belt, a shaft) to a gear hub (207) that drives theseparate axles, or common axle. The transmission can provide one or moreforward gears (either “step up” or “step down” gears) and optionally oneor more reverse gears. The gear hub (207) may assist the user inproviding sufficient motive energy to the drive wheels (202, 203), andallows the Pedal Chair (1) to accommodate users of with different typesand/or degree of disabilities, e.g., a person having reduced mobility inboth legs, or a person having reduced mobility in only one working leg,with the other leg having a greater or lesser relative degree ofmobility. It is to be understood that in alterative embodiments, thefoot pedals (201) or pedal crank (206) may be operatively connected viaa chain, a belt, a shaft or other mechanical linking means or linkageelements to the gear hub (207), as it is only necessary that the motiveforce provided by the user of the Pedal Chair via the pedals (201) betransferred or transmitted to the gear hub (207). In preferredembodiments the gear hub (207) and/or the transmission (207 a, ifpresent) incorporates into its construction a clutch assembly whichallows for the rotation of the drive wheels (202, 203) even when thepedals (201) and their pedal crank (206) are not being rotated by theuser of the Pedal Chair. In further preferred embodiments the gear hub(207) and/or transmission (207 a, if present) incorporates into itsconstruction a ‘coaster brake’ assembly which halts the rotation of thegear hub (207) (and/or the transmission 207 a) when the rotationaldirection of the pedals (201) is reversed. Such “coaster brake”assemblies are known from single-speed and multi-speed bicycles, e.g.,“Bendix” coaster brake rear hubs. Further braking mechanismsconventionally used in bicycles and wheelchairs are known to thosehaving ordinary skill in the art, and can be incorporated into the PedalChair as descried herein.

In one embodiment the gear hub (207) is directly connected to the axleor axles (204) and is fully operative without an intermediatetransmission (207 a), which may be omitted. In such an embodiment such agear hub (207) optionally but preferably incorporates into itsconstruction a clutch assembly and/or a ‘coaster brake’ assembly asdiscussed above. The provision of a ‘coaster brake’ assembly provides anancillary means for stopping the rotation of the drive wheels (202, 203)which may also be stopped by the user of the Pedal Chair manuallygrasping or gripping parts of the drive wheels (202, 203). In a furtherembodiment, a common axle is not present, but rather separate axlesconnect the first drive wheel (202) and the second drive wheel (203)part of the Pedal Chair. In such an embodiment, suitable mechanical orelectro-mechanical means couple the gear hub (207) and/or thetransmission (207 a) to each of these separate axles connected to thefirst drive wheel (202) and the second drive wheel (203) and themechanical or electro-mechanical means are used to drive one or both ofthe drive wheels (202, 203).

With reference to FIG. 25, according to a further embodiment of thepresent invention, the drive assembly (20) alternatively comprises: i. afirst drive wheel and a second drive wheel each connected to an axle;ii. a support shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein theproximal end of the support shaft is located on the bottom side of themobile chair apparatus; iii. a pair of foot pedals connected to a cranklocated at the distal end of the support shaft; iv. a chain operablyconnecting the crank to the axle. According to this design, the need fora second chain and transmission is eliminated for a simpler and morebasic mobile chair apparatus. As compared to the first embodiment of thedrive assembly (20) described above, according to an alternative designfor the drive assembly (20), transmission (207 a) and the first chaindirectly attached to the transmission (207 a) are eliminated.

According to a further embodiment of the present invention, the driveassembly (20) includes an electrical motor assist or includes aprovision for incorporating an electrical motor assist in the future.The motor assist feature allows a person having limited physical abilityto pedal on flat surfaces, and provide assistance only when needed, suchas when the user is tired, or when the surface on which the Pedal Chairis traversing is more challenging. The motor assist is also a usefulfeature when the Pedal Chair is being used as an exercise/rehabilitationdevice. Specifically, a person can use the motor assist feature toperform interval training, that is, pedal for a period of time, thenrest for a period of time, depending on the targeted rehabilitationprotocol.

In use, an occupant user of the Pedal Chair enters and sits in the chairvia a side/front entrance, and then swings their legs over the supportshaft (boom). The feet of the user would be placed on the foot pedals.The feet can either be rested on the foot pedals, or strapped in via anyknown and available device for securing feet to, e.g., bicycle pedals ortoe clips.

To propel the chair forward, the occupant user moves one or both legs ina circular motion on the foot pedals (201) which causes the pedal crank(206) to rotate; this motive force is translated via a chain, a belt, ashaft or other mechanical linking means or linkage elements to the gearhub (207), which in turn operates to rotate the drive wheels (202, 203).In the alternative drive assembly arrangement detailed above, the motiveforce of the rotating crank can be translated via a single chain to theaxle (204), which in turn operates to rotate the drive wheels (202,203), without need for a second chain Movement speed of the Pedal Chaircan be varied by varying speed of pedaling. Braking can be provided by adisc brake mounted on the front driving wheels which is actuated by alever mounted on the armrest. Braking can also be provided by simplystopping pedaling, and if needed pedal in reverse.

Advantages of the Pedal Chair (1)

The Pedal Chair described herein provides stability, foldability andadjustability. Stability of the Pedal Chair is supported by the fourwheels making simultaneous contact with the ground. The configuration ofthe four wheels provides an inherent stability to the Pedal Chair andmakes the need for any kind of additional “outrigger” supportunnecessary, or the need for a fifth (or further) wheel(s) necessary.The front drive wheels can be configured with negative camber to providelateral stability at movement speeds not exceeding 4 mph. The rearsteering wheels provide longitudinal stability at varying movementspeeds and on inclines. The Pedal Chair is designed to be compliant withaccess requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

One additional advantageous feature which, in preferred embodiments (asshown in the drawing figures) is provided by the Pedal Chair is itsfoldability. Specifically, the support shaft (boom) is able to swingunder the chair by rotation around the axle or axles, thus the chairapparatus can be folded to accommodate a small storage space. Thisfoldability is achievable with the double chain configuration or thesingle chain configuration (i.e., if the foot pedals (201) or pedalcrank (206) is connected directed to the axle or axles (without thesecondary small chain)). The seatback of the chair can also be connectedto the seat or a chair frame on which the seat is mounted via a hinge orpivot connection so as to allow the seatback to fold down, thusproviding further space reduction. The rear (steering) wheels can alsobe foldable through a release mechanism, thus providing yet furtherspace reduction. Further, the two drive wheels can be connected via aquick release mechanism allowing for easy removal and installation. Atits smallest size, the Pedal Chair has a dimension not exceeding 26inches by 31 inches by 33 inches, allowing it to be portable, and fitsinto standard sized car trunk.

Another advantage of the Pedal Chair is its adjustability. Because thesupport shaft can be configured to be adjustable in both length (via thelongitudinally sliding motion of an inner shaft within the outer shaftand locking bolts) and angle, the chair can comfortably accommodateusers of a wide range of weight, height, built, etc. In a preferredembodiment, the boom can be adjusted lengthwise for up to 8 inches. Theboom designed allowing it to be able to fold under the chair also allowsthe angle it forms to be adjusted up or down and then secured using alocking mechanism, which can be the same locking mechanism used torelease and tighten the boom to fold under the chair.

Yet further, the tiller-facilitated steering is also advantageous sincethe tillers are removable on either side to enable ease of transfer inor out of the VeloChair

Components of the mobile chair as described hereinabove can be made fromconventional materials known in the art. In an embodiment, one or morecomponents of the mobile chair or portions of said component orcomponents can be made from aluminum, carbon fiber, or a mixture ofboth.

Finally, the combination of any embodiment or feature mentioned hereinwith one or more of any of the other separately mentioned embodiments orfeatures is contemplated to be within the scope of the instantinvention. In particular, each steering assembly arrangement describedhereinabove can be combined with each drive assembly arrangementdescribed hereinabove to produce the final Pedal Chair.

What is claimed is:
 1. A mobile chair apparatus having a front end, a rear end, a top side and a bottom side, comprising: (a) a steering assembly comprising: i. a first tiller, ii. a first large link arm and a second large link arm, wherein the first tiller is operably connected to the first large link arm, iii. a first steering tube, a first steering tube shaft, a first steering tube gear, a second steering tube, a second steering tube shaft, and a second steering tube gear, wherein said first steering tube has the first steering shaft inserted therein, said first steering tube shaft being operably connected to the first large link arm, and wherein said second steering tube has the second steering shaft inserted therein, said second steering tube shaft being operably connected to the second large link arm, and wherein the first steering gear is mounted to the first steering shaft, and the second steering gear is mounted to the second steering shaft, iv. a connecting tie rod; and v. a first steering wheel and a second steering wheel each located at the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus, the first and second steering wheels configured to move in response to movement of the first tiller, and (b) a drive assembly, and (c) a seat.
 2. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drive assembly comprises: i. a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel each connected to an axle, wherein diameters of the first and second drive wheels are larger than diameters of the first and second steering wheels; ii. a support shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the support shaft is located on the bottom side of the mobile chair apparatus; iii. a pair of foot pedals connected to a crank located at the distal end of the support shaft; iv. a gear hub located at the proximal end of the support shaft; v. a first chain connecting the crank to the gear hub; and vi. a second chain shorter in length than the first chain, said second chain connecting the gear hub to the axles, or connecting components of the gear hub.
 3. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 2, wherein diameter of the first and second drive wheels is about 20 inches.
 4. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second steering wheels can turn about 90° in a right direction and about 90° in a left direction.
 5. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein diameter of the first and second steering wheels is about 8 inches.
 6. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first and second steering wheels rotate about a vertical axis running through their diameter in response to movement of the first tiller.
 7. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, having a dimension not exceeding 32 inches in width.
 8. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, configured such that no more than four wheels are in contact with the ground when in operation.
 9. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, configured such that exactly four wheels are in contact with the ground when in operation.
 10. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, which is free of an outrigger.
 11. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein a seatback is connected to a chair frame via a hinge connection.
 12. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, consisting essentially of components (a)-(c).
 13. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drive assembly comprises: i. a first drive wheel and a second drive wheel each connected to an axle; ii. a support shaft having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end of the support shaft is located on the bottom side of the mobile chair apparatus; iii. a pair of foot pedals connected to a crank located at the distal end of the support shaft; and iv. a chain operably connecting the crank to the axle.
 14. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first tiller is operably connected to the first large link arm via a first tiller receiving socket.
 15. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, wherein the first steering tube shaft is operably connected to the first large link arm via a first small link arm, and the second steering tube shaft is operably connected to the second large link arm via a second small link arm.
 16. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 15, wherein the connecting tie rod interconnects the first small link arm and the second small link arm.
 17. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a second tiller located on an opposite side of the first tiller, and the second tiller is operably connected to the second large link arm.
 18. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first and the second steering wheels rotate about a vertical axis running through their diameter in response to movement of the first or both the first and the second tillers.
 19. The mobile chair apparatus of claim 17, wherein the second large link arm is operably connected to the second tiller via a second tiller receiving socket.
 20. A mobile chair apparatus having a front end, a rear end, a top side and a bottom side, comprising: (a) a steering assembly, (b) a drive assembly, and (c) a seat, wherein the steering assembly (a) comprises: (i) a first tiller located at the front end of the mobile chair apparatus, (ii) a first steering wheel and a second steering wheel each located at the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus on opposite sides of the apparatus, the first and second steering wheels being configured to turn left or right in response to forward or backward movement of the first tiller, (iii) a first large link arm, (iv) a first steering tube and a second steering tube, and (v) a first steering wheel dropout and a second steering wheel dropout, and (vi) a connecting tie rod at the rear end of the mobile chair apparatus, wherein, the first tiller is operably connected to the first steering wheel via the first steering tube, the first tiller is operably connected to the first steering tube via the first side connection piece, the first steering tube is operably connected to the first steering wheel via the first steering wheel dropout, the second steering tube is operably connected to the second steering wheel via the second steering wheel dropout, and the first and the second steering tubes are operably connected to each other via the connecting tie rod. 